You're reading a how-to that is part of our new Learn Beta. Track your progress. Earn badges. Learn IT! Read More about the beta experience.

Introduction

It seems to be a common problem with the IBM Think pads that the LCD panel back light goes out. This "How to" will point out the common problem and how to fix it.

Note: The model used in this "How to" is an IMB Thinkpad G40.
Each model of laptop will have a specific inverter design, and they are generally not interchangeable. So make sure when you purchase one that it is compatible with your laptop.

Steps
(5 total)

1

Determine the problem.

First plug the laptop into a standard monitor via VGA and see if you get a picture. If so, then unplug the VGA cable and read on.

Find a work area with a good light source.
Plug in your laptop and turn it on.
Have direct light on shine on the screen and look closely to see if there is an image of your desktop / login screen.

Now turn off and remember to UNPLUG it from the outlet, and remove the battery.

2

Begin removal of the LCD panel housing.

The most common of problem is the inverter no longer works. The inverter is located just below the LCD panel.

To remove the panel there will be 4 phillips style screws that are cover with a plastic disks to hide them.
2 on the bottom.
2 on the sides near the bottom.
Remove these screws.
(Screw placement varies with model.)

The hard part is prying the bezel apart. As the picture shows, you will need a small standard screwdriver to gently wedge in as you CAREFULLY pull apart the bezel a little bit at a time.

The bezel is snapped together, so when you pry apart it will POP.

3

Replacing the Inverter.

Inside the red square is the inverter. This part runs for about $40, so it is worth the trouble if your laptop is out of warranty.

Remove the 2 screws at both ends.

Remove the 3 connections. Removing the connections, especially the power (Black and Red wires) takes a little patients and a tad bit of force. I used a small standard screwdriver to help with removal.

Replace with the new inverter.

As will most things in hardware, the plugs are design to fit one way. So don't force it in.

Screw the new inverter back into place.

4

Test the new inverter.

Before you go through the trouble of putting the bezel back on, be sure to test it.

Plug in the laptop and turn it on.

If there still is no back light, then may need to replace the LCD panel which cost quite a bit more, but that is another how to.

5

Final step

If you have picture, then the repair was a success!

Go ahead a carefully snap the bezel back into place and screw it back together.

Pat yourself on the back for a job well done ; )

Conclusion

I hope you find this "How to" helpful if you end up having to fix a laptop's back light issue like I did.

A daily dose of today's top tech news, in brief.
You need to hear this.
Reddit gets native video support
Variety reports that Reddit has just introduced a new feature that allows you to upload video clips directly to the service. The feature was ...

For a long time we have been happily using the Dell E Dock. But as Dell are removing the E dock port I need to find a good USB docking station. What is everyone else using? We are a nonprofit so need something cheap.

I am curious about what others think when having to take an exam to qualify for a position. I personally don't feel that a company can really judge a person just by taking a test for a position the company is hiring for. Now I know they are trying to see if this individual is qualified, but sometimes there are questions on these exams that even experts can't answer.